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From Fred Ezeh and Dorcas Esokawu, Abuja
National Library of Nigeria (NLN) has advised its staff members particularly those in the procurement department to desist from compromising the procurement processes and strictly abide by the down rules.
The warning was sequel to recent suspension of three senior officers in the procurement unit who were found to have compromised the system for selfish gains.
The agency warned that it would not hesitate to visit any staff found wanting with the full wrath of the law, which might be enforced by the officials of anti graft agency.
The National Librarian, Prof. Lenrie Aina, dropped the warning in Abuja during the opening of tender document to select technically qualified contractors that would execute some capital project for the agency.
He said N1.8 billion was budgeted “for our capital projects in 2017 fiscal year. It might not be enough for our needs but we must ensure that it is judiciously used for the purpose it was budgeted. This was against previous practice of mismanagement and embezzlement.
“We had cases in the past where procurement officers compromised. We initiated an investigation and that resulted in recent suspension of three top officers to serve as warning to others in the department and other sections who might want to try fraudulent activities.
“When I assumed office as the Chief Executive Officer of NLN, I vowed not to compromise in the award of contracts and that I have maintained irrespective of pressures.”
